Protective Eyewear
Frequently asked questions
What does AS/NZS 1337.1 certification mean?
AS/NZS 1337.1 is the Australian and New Zealand standard for eye protection in industrial environments. The certification tests safety glasses and goggles for optical quality, impact resistance, coverage area and durability. Products meeting this standard protect against medium impact hazards from particles, chips and splashes common in workshops and construction sites. The certification ensures eyewear meets minimum safety requirements for workplace use. Wearing certified eye protection helps businesses comply with safety legislation and protects workers from eye injuries.
How do I know if safety glasses fit properly?
Safety glasses should sit close to your face without touching eyelashes, provide peripheral vision coverage and stay secure during head movement. The temples should rest comfortably on your ears without pinching. There should be minimal gap between the lens and your face at the sides. If glasses slide down your nose or feel loose, try a different size or style. Proper fit ensures protection from all angles and prevents particles entering around the edges during impact or splash events.
Why do safety glasses fog up and how do I prevent it?
Safety glasses fog when warm, moist air from your face meets the cooler lens surface, creating condensation. Ventilation reduces fogging by allowing air circulation. Choose glasses or goggles with side vents or indirect ventilation points. Anti fog coatings create a hydrophilic surface where moisture spreads evenly rather than forming droplets. Clean lenses regularly as dirt attracts moisture. In cold conditions or high humidity environments, models with better airflow significantly reduce fogging and maintain clear vision throughout your shift.
Can I wear safety glasses over my prescription glasses?
Yes, many safety glasses designs accommodate prescription glasses underneath. Look for models marked as over glasses or OTG (over the glasses) with deeper, wider frames. These provide adequate space without pressure on your prescription frames. Alternatively, consider prescription safety glasses that incorporate corrective lenses directly into certified safety eyewear. This provides better fit, comfort and field of view compared to wearing two pairs. Many suppliers offer prescription safety glasses that meet AS/NZS 1337.1 standards.
What is the difference between safety glasses and goggles?
Safety glasses protect against frontal impact and are lighter for extended wear. They suit general workshop tasks where splash risk is low. Goggles seal around the eyes and protect against impact, dust, splash and chemical exposure from all directions. The elastic strap and foam seal prevent particles entering from the sides. Use goggles when grinding, working with chemicals, in dusty environments or where liquid splash occurs. Glasses suit most general tasks while goggles address higher risk situations requiring complete eye enclosure.